The Las Vegas Aces have punched their ticket to the WNBA Finals for an impressive third time in four seasons, emerging victorious from a nail-biting, winner-take-all Game 5 against the Indiana Fever. The high-stakes semifinal clash culminated in a thrilling 107-98 overtime triumph for the Aces, a contest that made history as only the second decisive Game 5 in WNBA annals to extend beyond regulation.
This hard-fought win sets the stage for the Aces to battle the Phoenix Mercury in the championship series, with Game 1 scheduled for Friday night on their home court in Las Vegas.
Key players for the Aces delivered standout performances when it mattered most. A'ja Wilson was phenomenal, posting a dominant stat line of 35 points, eight rebounds, five assists, and four blocks. Jackie Young also shone brightly, contributing 32 points and 10 assists. Despite an ankle injury, Chelsea Gray, alongside Jewell Loyd, made crucial shots during the overtime period, providing the decisive surge that carried their team to victory.
Conversely, the Indiana Fever, who have grappled with an unrelenting string of injuries throughout their season, faced insurmountable challenges. Star guard Kelsey Mitchell exited the game in the third quarter with an apparent knee injury, and the team was forced to play the entire extra frame without Aliyah Boston, who fouled out late in regulation. These significant disadvantages ultimately proved too great for the already depleted Fever squad to overcome, despite their valiant effort.
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Originally published at: https://www.cbssports.com/wnba/news/aces-oust-fever-in-game-5-chelsea-grays-ot-heroics-send-las-vegas-back-to-third-wnba-finals-in-four-years/live/
